Centennial Park was officially dedicated on 26 January 1888, when Sir Henry Parkes declared: "The most distinguishing feature of modern civilisation is the beneficial provision made for the enjoyment and the health of the people, and this great park, which has been created as by the touch of a fairy's wand, in the course of the next two or three years will be converted into a place of beauty and a joy for ever."   Australian Town & Country Journal, 8 February 1902 This year marks the 125th anniversary of the park, and they're celebrating in style, complete with a touch of a fairy's wand.

  As well as collecting stories and recollections about the park (Submit Your Story), they're hosting a series of community picnics at dusk over 10 nights from the 18 January, when you can wander through some spectacular illuminations and attend different talks, performances and festivities each night,  including a Park after Dark tour, a night photography workshop by Peter Solness, a drop-in opportunity with the Sydney Observatory for some star gazing, and a world-first screening of 'As Small Birds Play'. Check out the anniversary website www.cp125.com.au for more details, and then read more about the history of the park here in Paul Ashton's entry Centennial Park on the Dictionary!